The Acting President Hon David
Adeang received the ambassador-designate of the Kingdom of the
Netherlands to Nauru at the Presidential Office this morning
(Monday 1st June) for the presentation of credentials.

Upon arriving at the government office Ms Johanna Ruigrok
presented copies of her letter of Credence to acting secretary for
Foreign Affairs & Trade Dr Maria Gaiyabu before being received
by the acting Director of Police Antonius Amwano for the playing of
the national anthems and inspection of the police Guard of
Honour.

Ms Ruigrok was later escorted to the President's Office for the
presentation of credentials.

In her introductory message Ambassador Ruigrok said she was
honoured to be entrusted with the responsibility of ambassador of
her country to Nauru and looks forward to contribute to the
improvement of the already excellent relations of both
countries.

Ms Ruigrok highlighted that despite the distance and numerous
differences between Nauru and the Netherlands, there are common
interests such as the two countries closeness to the sea and
therefore the negative implications of climate change.

The ambassador also highlighted that the Netherlands being one of
the largest contributors to the development cooperation budget of
the European Union noted that Nauru will receive a contribution
from EU development funds.

Ms Ruigrok also brought to attention that the Kingdom of the
Netherlands is a candidate for a non-permanent seat in the United
Nations Security Council for the period 2017-2018, and therefore
sought Nauru's support for its candidacy.

Acting President Adeang accepted the letter of Credence and
congratulated Ms Ruigrok on her appointment.

Mr Adeang said he is heartened to know that the Kingdom of the
Netherlands is also desirous to further promote the common desires
of progress, security, lasting peace and economic prosperity for
both peoples.

"Excellency, the issue of climate change for Nauru is held with
great concern. Global warming and the rise in sea levels will
result in land, resources and displacement of our people.
Climate change is not only a threat to international peace and
security but is a very real threat to our survival and existence,"
A/President David Adeang said.

Following the presentation of credentials Ms Ruigrok continues
courtesy visits over the next two days and is expected to pay a
courtesy call on President Baron Waqa upon his return to Nauru on
Wednesday 3 June before her departure later the same afternoon.